Gallagher: Why They Didn't Have To Demolish The University Club

Earlier this month Detroit’s venerable University Club fell to a wrecking crew, John Gallagher recalls in the Free Press.

 I hope Mayor-elect Mike Duggan was paying attention. The mistakes that led to the loss of this refined work of architecture capture a lot about the problems that will soon land on Duggan’s desk.

Founded in 1899 by local university graduates, the club built its Jefferson Avenue headquarters in 1931. Designed by architect William Kapp of Smith, Hinchman & Grylls (now the SmithGroup), the University Club was notable for its leaded glass windows and interiors rich with paneling and carved-beam ceilings.

Gallagher suggests:

■ Better code enforcement.

■ Better policing.

■ Better urban planning.